Overview & Reviews

The Pontiac Grand Prix started out as a personal luxury car in the early 1960s. Back then, personal luxury meant a big coupe with a big V8 and a stylish interior, usually featuring plush bucket seats and a floor shifter. Exterior design bordered on flamboyant at times, but the Grand Prix made no apologies for its unabashed sense of American style and performance.

In more recent times, the Pontiac Grand Prix offered consumers a sensibly sized family coupe or sedan, with plenty of performance on tap thanks to the availability of peppy V6 engines or even a powerful V8. Styling continued to be a draw, with a sweeping roof line and the signature twin-grille nose. Unfortunately, another hallmark of the Grand Prix was an overly plasticky interior, with various switches and knobs typically rendered in gray plastic that looked more Fisher-Price than General Motors. Pontiac improved the interior toward the end of the Grand Prix's run, but it still couldn't hold a candle to the high-quality interiors of its import-brand rivals.

Would the Grand Prix be a good choice for a family vehicle? That depends on what dad (or mom) wants. If performance is paramount and a smallish backseat is not a problem, then a used GP deserves a look. On the other hand, if high-quality fit and finish and roomy rear quarters are more important, then the import competition will be a better match.

Most Recent Pontiac Grand Prix

The last-generation Pontiac Grand Prix debuted in 2004 and was terminated after 2008. It benefited from a refined engine lineup, fine-tuned ride and handling characteristics and a more driver-friendly cockpit with large gauges and, for the most part, simple controls. The coupe was dropped, leaving the sedan as the lone body style.

There were two trim levels for the Grand Prix's last year of production in 2008 -- base and GXP. The base model came with a 200-horsepower V6 as well as 16-inch wheels, OnStar, a CD player, cruise control, air-conditioning, keyless entry, and power windows and mirrors. The GXP included a 303-hp V8, firmer suspension tuning, performance tires, a head-up display, unique trim and 18-inch alloys. Leather seating and automatic dual-zone climate control were optional.

Performance, even in the base model, was satisfying, and got quite a bit stronger from there. Although the V8-powered GXP provided a thrilling rush of power, torque steer was a problem with this front-drive chassis. Sadly, the abundant power infusion wasn't enough to keep the Grand Prix wholly competitive. Compared to the top sport-oriented sedans, the Pontiac felt unrefined in terms of handling dynamics and cabin fitments.

Prior to the 2008 model year, the last-generation Grand Prix was available in a GT trim level that featured a supercharged 260-hp V6, 17-inch wheels and some features that were options on the base model. For buyers interested in a used Grand Prix, we would recommend the GT over the other trims because of its balance of power, fuel economy and handling.

Past Pontiac Grand Prix Models

The previous-generation Pontiac Grand Prix was built from 1997-2003. Available as either a sleek coupe or a handsome four-door sedan, this Grand Prix offered brisk acceleration and a tight suspension for a relatively affordable price. The supercharged 3800 V6 debuted with this generation (in the GTP trim) and offers a great combination of power and fuel efficiency. Downsides include a somewhat raucous power delivery, a harsh ride over rough surfaces (in GT and GTP models), cheap interior materials and needlessly complex controls. Still, consumers have given this generation high marks in terms of performance, handling, fuel economy and style. It should be noted that this generation's base model had slightly different (and less sporty) front and rear styling from the GT and GTP models.

Prior to that, there was the 1988-'96 generation, available in both coupe and sedan body styles. This car was a bit smaller and its styling went overboard in the body-cladding area. Typical of many GM products, this Grand Prix's strengths lay in its powertrains and performance, while weak points included cheap interior materials, overly busy controls and mediocre rear seat comfort.

From 1978-'87, the Pontiac Grand Prix was offered solely as a personal luxury coupe, which had been downsized from the excessively large cruisers of the '60s and '70s. But like those earlier GPs, this era's priorities were flashy styling and plush interiors. From a collector's standpoint, the 1962-'72 Grand Prix are most worthy of consideration, as powerful engines (such as the 421 V8 with tri-power carburetion) and eye-catching styling make them cruise-night favorites.

User Reviews:

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  Red 97 GT - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By pontiac_gt97 - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought it used August 1, 2003 with 116k I have only had it 5 months and now it has 122k..I like it so far I traded a 92GP for it and it was a reliable car so I decided to stay with a GP. I like the handling and the gas mileage but the window motor makes me mad because it takes for ever to roll the window up GM needed to put a better window motor in it. the oil pan leaked so I had to change the gasket and it hasnt leaked since then. It is a little rough on bumpy roads.Over all I really like the car.

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  This car is bleeding me dry - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By mmyy66 - January 11 - 2:00 am

  The car us fun to drive, but the build quality is so pathetic. Ive put thousands into repairs ... and not just routine maintenance like new tires and brakes. GM still has yet to figure out how electronics work. Many lights in the dash dont work. The steering-wheel radio controls are kaput. The computer chips have gone haywire at different times. Both door windows have gone bad multiple times. Two weeks ago it was a fuel pump. A few days ago it was a window switch. Sorry to say, GM, but youre sorry-ass car will lead me to buy Honda or Toyota. The statistics bear out the undeniable fact that GM really doesnt build quality cars.

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  It turns a few heads - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Eric - January 9 - 5:10 am

  Were a family of four and about to be empty nesters. We were looking for a minivan replacement, and frankly the $6K rebate is what sold us this car. Its good looking to us and the front seats are very comfortabe. But after a year with the car we have issues: cheap interior plastics are hard to clean; Engine has plenty of torque, but it always feels heavy; OEM tires impossible to keep balanced; its hard to back up; and the rear seat is downright painful for anyone over 12. (We noticed the rear seat has improved in the 2005 model) Anyway, its still fun to drive when its just my wife and I. The stereo is excellent, it handles well and its big V6 is good for interstate crusing.

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  Love It - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By peachez1964 - January 8 - 10:55 pm

  Have had my 2006 for eight years. She has over 240,000 miles and Ive only done basic maintenance. A comfortable ride which is important with a two hour commute each day. Great performance and gas mileage! Ive started looking for another vehicle and plan to pass this one to the kids. I wish the Grand Prixs were still being produced!

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  Best preloved car I ever bought - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By ryan427 - January 7 - 12:53 pm

  I bought my 2000 GTP with 96000 miles on it. It was a one owner in mint condition. the previous owner had to put a transmission in at 77,000 miles, but had no other issues. Apparently, there was a problem with some of the trannys in these cars. Replacing the battery is a real bear. Dash rattles a bit over bumps. I am watching a possible leaky valve cover gasket. Aside from that, this car rocks. Performance, fuel economy and looks are all outstanding. I lucked out and found this model with every single feature offered. It was a $29,000 car in 2000. Added Mobil 1 to the engine and trans and, a K&N filter and am now experiencing 30 mpg on the highway.

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  Life with a Red GTP - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By El Squid - January 6 - 7:20 am

  I bought a used GTP because GM decided to discontinue the 2-door version. I am amazed at how little fuel it takes to propel the GTP along open highways. Conversely, when engaging in stoplight gymnastics it rips through premium gas like, well you know what I mean. Its a shame that along with discontinuing the GTP coupe, the performance shift switch was also deleted. Hooray for Hypertech whose reprogrammer allows the return of fast shifts and also disables the silly governor. In spite of the cars 145 mph capability I drive the car within posted limits except when visiting the Nevada desert and other fun places. Besides, 30 mpg is available on the interstate if driven gently.

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  Alternators3 - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By NicholsS - January 3 - 10:00 am

  The alternator has been replaced three times( the first two by GM, and the third one by me). Each time the alternator was replaced, I had another electricial problem some place else(The radio , the amp and the light replay switch). GM needs to fix the alternator problem(it may be the location of the unit or the quality of the unit itself). make sure you go to a shop thath will replace the unit as long as you owns the cars.

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  My 2004 Grand Prix GT2 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Mary Humphrey - December 31 - 10:00 am

  I have traveled in deep snow pounding rain and have never lost control of my vehicle. This is the second Grand Prix I have owned and I dont think I will be changing models for a while. I buy a new car every 2-3 years and I am very happy with the grand prix.

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  First Car - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Roman - December 27 - 9:23 pm

  I bought this car after having nothing but trucks sinc I was 16. I took one look at this car and it was love at first sight!! It only had about 65k on it and was in mint condition. I love everything about this car except for the rims that come on the special edition package, a minor setback. I have had no problems yet and I hope to not have any either. I love the gas mileage coming from a diesel truck that was getting around 11 mpg Yikes! It will get up and go with the best of them and stay up pretty good. It does govern out at 126 but I dont think thats a prob since I wont be going that fast all the time..

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  I love my CAR - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
  By Grand Prix Lover - December 23 - 3:43 am

  I am the original owner of this car and still am in love with its performance and look. I will always wish I could have afforded the GTP, but thats in the past. I was hit from behind at 55 mph and had minor damage and no injuries several years ago, other cars behind me (Honda and Mazda) were totalled! I havent cared for the car like I should, and have just now started to have some problems at 91,000 miles. Needs AC replaced, and just replaced fuel tank. But hey, I havent had a car payment in over 5 years! Interior is still beautiful except carpet on driver side is wearing down.